Future Plans Well Received

August 28, 2006

Nearly 200 students, friends, local media, and supporters of North American Baptist Seminary gathered in the Chapel on Wednesday, June 21, 2006, to join in celebration as President Dr. Michael Hagan announced plans for NABS' future.

The Reverend Mike DeLong, Board of Trustees Chair (2003-2006) and 1990 graduate of NABS, shared the seminary's vision as he welcomed guests and introduced President Hagan.

"Through creative solutions to meet the needs of North American Baptist Seminary and its students, constituencies, and the region, Dr. Hagan is leading us now into a very exciting future," DeLong stated.

In his prepared statement, Hagan shared the following: "Thank you for attending this important announcement, a great day in the life of North American Baptist Seminary.

"Established in 1858 in Rochester, NY, the seminary moved to Sioux Falls in 1949, occupying space on the campus of Sioux Falls College until a new facility was finished on the present site in 1950. The move back in 1949 was made to better meet the changing ministerial needs of its day.

"Once again, to become more effective in our day, we wish to announce the relocation of NABS to new facilities to be constructed near 29th and Summit, adjacent to Augustana College. The vision of our Board of Trustees involves a new campus that will maximize new technologies, will be energy efficient, will integrate our staff and students in constructive ways, and will show flexibility for whatever the future will hold.

"Locating near Augustana will allow sharing of services for mutual advantage while remaining independent institutions. We will explore many ways to better serve our students and constituencies.

"Our hope is to break ground in March 2007 with occupancy in June 2008. This timeline will coincide with our 150th anniversary celebration that summer. To make this a reality, we will work with Jans Corporation and RSA Architects.

"We wish to thank Kelby Krabbenhoft and Sioux Valley Health Systems for their willingness to accelerate on buying our land and Dr. Bruce Halverson, President-elect Rob Oliver, and Augustana College for sharing the vision of cooperative enhancements.

"In addition, we want to express our appreciation to the insights and patience of Curt Hage and Dave Brown at Home Federal Bank. Of course, thanks also goes to the Board of Trustees for their openness to explore new ideas and to the 150 years of church and individual support that has made and continues to make our ministry possible.

"And to our current students and students in the future - we take this step to provide for you the best equipping possible for ministry preparation, whether in counseling, pastoral ministry, or missions work. Your call to ministry is our passion to achieve. You will always be the reason we exist."

Following the announcement, a brief question and answer session allowed press conference attendees the chance to express comments and concerns.

Since the June press conference, the seminary has received a stream of support and enthusiasm regarding the relocation within Sioux Falls. As part of the acceleration deal with Sioux Valley, the seminary will stay in its current location until the new facilities are finished. Those with questions are encouraged to contact the seminary. We would be happy to provide you with answers.

If you would like to view President Hagan's press conference announcement, click here.

Take aStep Closer

Sioux Falls Seminary • 2100 South Summit Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD57105 • 1-800-440-6227 • 605-336-6588
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada